Characterized by a sudden shift in mood — from depressive lows to extreme highs — bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition often ignored or confused with bouts of anger and stress. As a result, people suffering from the disorder are usually marginalized as having temperament issues or moody. However, bipolar disorder is a potentially risky condition as it can lead to violent activities, self-harming tendencies, and suicidal behaviors if left untreated.
Having said that, treatment of bipolar disorder necessarily needs accurate determination of the condition, which is possible only with a thorough medical diagnosis. However, realizing and recognizing the presence of the condition can be challenging as its symptoms are similar to that of depression, mood disorder, and borderline personality disorder. Although no symptom can accurately confirm the presence of bipolar disorder, below are some signs of this mental condition:
Rapid speech
The speed of talking is an issue with people suffering from bipolar disorder, especially when they are not in a two-way conversation. In such a situation, they start speaking rapidly, not letting other people talk, or changing the topic of conversation abruptly. It could be a sign of bipolar if the tendency occurs when they are in a manic cycle but not at other times.
Flight of idea
When individuals suffering from the condition are in their manic phase, they often experience a plethora of ideas racing in their minds that are beyond their control. There occurs a rapid switching of thoughts, which further makes it difficult to complete a task. Many patients also experience it, along with rapid speech.
Lack of sleep
Often, people suffering from bipolar disorder find it hard to fall asleep because of the high energy. Their boundless energy makes them stay active and energetic throughout the day without taking any break, sleep, or rest. As a result, they also stay up late at night, causing sleep deficiency, and further worsening their existing mental condition.
Short temper
Although having a short temper can be of an inherited nature, it is also a potential sign of bipolar disorder. When suffering from a mental disorder, the individual tends to freak out or yell and exhibit a violent streak, even at a small cause. This can even happen with a person who is otherwise quite patient and tolerant.
Inflated ego
Everybody has an ego, and it’s quite natural. But ego in individuals suffering from bipolar can be concerning. Such people tend to exaggerate their abilities and sense of self-esteem, which further inflates their ego. Therefore, any doubt or disagreement with them can trigger their mental disorder.
Since identifying bipolar disorder is tough, it is always advisable to seek medical help with the onset of the symptoms. Only a medical diagnosis can confirm the presence, severity, and duration of the condition. Although the real cause of the bipolar disorder is not known, treatment for recovery from the condition is available. The common mode of treatment includes medications and psychotherapy. People battling bipolar disorder are prescribed a mood stabilizer, also called an “antimanic” medication, to control their mood swings and suicidal tendencies. Lithium and certain anti-seizure drugs like carbamazepine (Tegretol), lamotrigine (Lamictal), or valproate (Depakote) are also prescribed.
Another commonly used treatment is electroconvulsive therapy. It involves passing electric currents via electrodes to the brain to trigger a brief seizure. The procedure is done under general anesthesia; hence, no harm is caused to a patient.
